This year, the CDC estimates over 7,000 deaths will occur because of melanoma, a form of skin cancer. A lot of people only apply sunscreen when going to the beach or pool. That is one of the biggest mistakes a person can make. Sure you think to yourself you’re going to be exposed to the sun the most in those places. Unfortunately, you get just as much damage from UV rays anytime. UV rays pass through window glass, and reflect off the water, and even off the snow. The more exposure to sun you get, then the more damage you are causing your skin. Needless to say, the rays are strong. It is important to protect your skin every day. But now that the winter is coming to an end, and the sun will be its hottest, be sure to take extra measures to protect your skin. The more exposure it gets without protection, the more likely to burn your skin, causing a higher risk for skin cancer.
What Kind Of Sunscreen To Use?
There are various sunscreens flooding the market claiming to protect your skin. A lot of these sunscreens only block UVB rays and not UVA rays. Look for sunscreens that have avobenzone or oxybenzone as an ingredient. Those two ingredients will protect your skin from UVA rays. Choose SPF 15 or higher, but know that the lower the SPF, then the more frequent you must re-apply. Try to stick to SPF 30 or 45. If you are swimming or sweating a lot, then it is best to reapply sunscreen every hour.
Remember Sunscreen, Even If It’s Cloudy!
As stated before, the sun’s rays reflect off water and snow, and get you! Clouds do not stand a chance against the rays either. UV rays can be just as harmful when the clouds provide shade. Also, don’t forget to protect your lips! Use a lip balm or lipstick that contains sunscreen of at least SPF 30. They need protection too.
Eat Your Way To Better Skin
There are many foods to eat that help protect your skin. Blueberries and cauliflower are abundant in antioxidants that protect your skin against damage from sun exposure. Lycopene, which is found in watermelon and tomatoes, absorbs UVA and UVB radiation. Carrots, spinach, and kale all contain beta carotene, which provides us with the vitamin A our skin needs for natural skin protection. While just eating these foods will protect your skin, keep in mind it’s not enough and that you need to also apply sunscreen. Consider these foods an additive to protecting you alongside your sunscreen. Like a sidekick!
The older you become, the more aware you become of skin care. Thinking back to all the times we would put baby oil on just to tan, talk about regret! While having a sun-kissed look during the summer is nice, remember you are causing more harm than good to your skin. Protect your skin as much as you can. Not only will you avoid cancer, but you will help your skin look more beautiful and youthful over the years. Less sun exposure/burn means fewer wrinkles!